A look at the most expensive players in PKL history
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) has revolutionized kabaddi in India. It has attracted millions of fans and transformed it into a major sport. One of the most exciting aspects of the PKL is the annual player auction, where franchises compete to acquire the best talent in the game. Over the years, we have witnessed some mind-boggling bids, with players commanding astronomical sums.
Season 1: Rakesh Kumar (Patna Pirates - ₹12.80 lakhs)
The inaugural season of the PKL saw a legend like Rakesh Kumar, a World Cup-winning captain and three-time Asian Games gold medalist, become the most expensive player. Patna Pirates secured his services for ₹12.80 lakhs, recognizing his vast experience and proven track record. Although he couldn't lead the Pirates to the title, his 99 points in 12 matches showcased his exceptional skills.
Season 2: Hadi Oshtorak (Telugu Titans - ₹21.1 lakhs)
The second season of the PKL witnessed a surge in the auction prices. Hadi Oshtorak, an Iranian raider, was the most expensive player, acquired by Telugu Titans for a substantial ₹21.1 lakhs. However, his performance didn't quite match the expectations, and the Titans were eliminated in the semi-finals.
Season 3: No auctions took place that year.
Season 4: Mohit Chhillar (Bengaluru Bulls - ₹53 lakhs)
A significant milestone was reached in Season 4 when Mohit Chhillar became the first player to be bought for more than ₹50 lakhs. Bengaluru Bulls secured his services for ₹53 lakhs, recognizing his exceptional defensive skills and ability to turn the tide of a match. Chhillar justified his price tag with impressive performances, contributing significantly to the Bulls' campaign.
Season 5: Nitin Tomar (UP Yoddhas - ₹93 lakhs)
The auction in Season 5 saw a new record set as Nitin Tomar was acquired by UP Yoddhas for a staggering ₹93 lakhs. Tomar's exceptional raiding abilities and consistent form made him a highly sought-after player. He delivered on the expectations, scoring 167 raid points and leading his team to the knockout stages.
Season 6: Monu Goyat (Haryana Steelers - ₹1.51 crore)
The PKL reached a new level of extravagance in Season 6 when Monu Goyat became the first player to be sold for over ₹1 crore. Haryana Steelers made a bold move, acquiring Goyat for a whopping ₹1.51 crore. Despite his team's disappointing performance, Goyat's 160 raid points highlighted his exceptional skills.
Season 7: Siddharth Desai (Telugu Titans - ₹1.45 crore)
Siddharth Desai's breakout season in the PKL saw him become the most expensive player in Season 7. Telugu Titans secured his services for ₹1.45 crore, recognizing his incredible raiding abilities. Desai continued to impress, scoring 217 raid points and showcasing his potential as one of the league's rising stars.
Season 8: Pardeep Narwal (UP Yoddhas - ₹1.65 crore)
The legendary Pardeep Narwal, known for his exceptional raiding skills, was the most expensive player in Season 8. UP Yoddhas acquired him for ₹1.65 crore, solidifying their position as a title contender. Narwal's 188 points helped his team reach the semi-finals, showcasing his continued dominance in the league.
Season 9: Pawan Sehrawat (Tamil Thalaivas - ₹2.26 crore)
The PKL witnessed another historic moment in Season 9 when Pawan Sehrawat became the first player to be sold for over ₹2 crore. Tamil Thalaivas made a bold investment, acquiring Sehrawat for ₹2.26 crore. Unfortunately, an injury ruled him out for the season, preventing him from showcasing his full potential.
Season 10: Pawan Sehrawat (Telugu Titans - ₹2.63 crore)
Pawan Sehrawat once again made history in Season 10, becoming the most expensive player in the league for the second time. Telugu Titans secured his services for a record-breaking ₹2.63 crore. Sehrawat's exceptional raiding abilities and consistent performances solidified his status as one of the greatest players in PKL history.
Season 11: Sachin Tanwar (Tamil Thalaivas - ₹2.15 crore)
Sachin Tanwar becomes the most expensive player in the league for the first time. Tamil Thalaivas secured his services for a whopping ₹2.15 crore. Sachin's exceptional raiding abilities and consistent performances solidified his status as one of the best raiders in PKL history.
The PKL player auctions have consistently set new benchmarks, with franchises willing to invest heavily in top-quality talent. As the league continues to grow, we can expect even more mind-boggling bids and the emergence of new superstars who will redefine the sport.
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